News

Anti-skimming solution protects DIP data without taking down the ATM

The Active DIP Kit from TMD allows continuous card data jamming — previously limited to motorized readers — on DIP card reader-equipped ATMs and SSTs.

March 5, 2015

ATM anti-skimming technology specialist TMD Security has introduced a new solution that continuously defends against skimming attacks on DIP card readers without taking the machine out of service, according to a company press release.

TMD's Active DIP Kit generates multiple random electromagnetic signals (i.e., "jamming") to prevent the copying and deciphering of data stored on the card's magnetic stripe. The cardholder experience is unaffected and, because card data is always protected by ADK, the ATM or SST can safely remain in service throughout an attack, the company said.

TMD introduced jamming protection in 2004 but, until the launch of ADK, continuous active protection was limited to motorized card readers. Jamming could be activated for DIP readers only upon the detection of a skimming device, at which time the ATM or self-service terminal would need to be taken out of service.

"Many motorized ATMs and SSTs are now actively protected, so DIP card readers are exposed and increasingly targeted for skimming," said TMD Security CEO Cees Heuker of Hoek in the release. "Even with the global move towards EMV, while the magnetic stripe remains on our cards, skimming provides an attractive prize for criminals. ...

"We developed ADK because we knew that the industry needs a new, more secure solution to actively protect DIP card readers that can be integrated into any ATM or SST without taking them out of service, just like motorized. Our priorities are maximum security, availability and consumer convenience."